2016 kia optima PHEV driven review release date price specs engine dimensions Car Price Concept-Like the thought or hate it, you would do well to get used to the idea of driving an auto that is energized in some structure. Putting aside the contentions over how fit for reason they are, the emanations regulations request it. So it is that the Kia Optima Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) is the company's first raid into the module market. This auto will be sold in the UK from the late summer of 2016 (eminently, be that as it may, the standard Optima half and half won't be sold here in light of the fact that the firm doesn't think there are sufficient clients for it). 2016 kia optima PHEV driven review release date price specs engine dimensions Car Price ConceptIn body style and innovation, the Optima PHEV is an immediate adversary to the VW Passat GTE and Audi A3 e-tron, in spite of the fact that it will likewise have the top of the line Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV in its sights, not minimum in light of the fact that it is prone to be estimated closer to its high £20,000 value section than the other auto's mid-£30,000 sticker prices. What's it like?: The Optima PHEV depends on the standard auto - which has been updated for 2015 - however consolidates a 2.0-liter petrol motor with a 50kW electric engine to deliver a joined 199bhp at 6000rpm. We drove it on new streets in Korea, so a complete determination is difficult to make. All alone, the petrol motor produces 154bhp and 139lb ft, however when joined with the additional electrical push that ascents to 202bhp, which is sufficient to mean it moves alongside activity at a more than satisfactory pace. The standard six-speed programmed gearbox likewise works sensibly subtly, making for a pleasantly refined drive. Underlining the advancement of mixture innovation, the lithium particle battery pack has six times more power than that found in the old Optima Hybrid and the electric engine is 42% all the more effective. No figures have been discharged, yet Kia specialists figure an authority 50mpg ought to be achievable when the auto is running in standard half and half mode. So, there is nothing remotely captivating about the Optima PHEV, past the moment torque accessible in unadulterated electric running, which the auto is equipped for up to 27 miles. Albeit official execution figures have yet to be discharged, the 0-60mph sprint feels sufficient instead of startling, while the auto's idle guiding and extra weight imply that driver engagement is hard to find - not that motorway-minded business drivers are prone to be excessively concerned. Inside, the Optima PHEV is open in the front, back and boot, and the materials and fit and complete of our test auto were noteworthy. The driving position is great, and the scope of conformities enough to permit any shape or size of driver to get settled. All things considered, both the Passat GTE and A3 e-tron are significantly more cleaned inside. Outwardly, transforms from the standard Optima are minor, however incorporate a charging port coordinated into the front guard, chrome ledge moldings, new wheel plans and a prudent identification pronouncing the auto to be an 'EcoPlug-In' model. Inside, the main distinction is a presentation that frameworks the auto's electrical capacities and powertrain status, in addition to the amount of battery charge is cleared out. 2016 kia optima PHEV driven review release date price specs engine dimensions Car Price ConceptShould I purchase one?: It's difficult to prescribe a module cross breed until you know its cost, in spite of the fact that Kia must realize that the auto's prosperity relies on upon it offering a monetary advantage past the organization expense and fuel investment funds to proprietors who run it. With the Volkswagen Group's opposition so solid, that must without a doubt mean the Optima will run eye to eye with the Outlander PHEV, albeit and, after its all said and done purchasers will be settling on a decision between the Mitsubishi's in vogue SUV shape over the Optima's old-school vast cantina profile. Valued in like manner, the Optima PHEV should offer in sensible numbers. It is a very skilled and critical - if to a great extent unexciting - passage into the business sector. Kia Optima PHEV Tried: Korea; Price na; 0-62mph na; Top rate na; Economy 50mpg (joined, est); CO2 na; Kerb weight na; Engine 4 cyls, 1999cc, petrol, in addition to 50kW electric engine; Power 202bhp (aggregate yield); Torque 139lb ft (petrol motor just); Gearbox 6-spd programme